Commentaries

Emergency: No time to lose your head
June 9, 2006 — A trip to the emergency room and a visit by the fire department were the highlights of my Memorial Day weekend. In the midst of a home project, my stepfather cut his hand with his pocketknife. I instantly applied Self Aid, Buddy Care training I had received just a few months ago, as the steps to caring for open wounds echoed in my head. I wrapped... MORE

Time for a summer stress check-up
June 9, 2006 — This is a message from your friendly family doctor. The thermometer hit 90 degrees this week. It’s time for the “Summer Checkup.” On-going deployments, staffing shortages, budget cuts? What about the lawn that needs mowing? The kids want to go to the ball game. Your spouse wants a “real” date. Are you feeling weary already? Now is the time to take... MORE

Is your cup half full or half empty?
May 19, 2006 — You might think that is a silly question, but its answer says a lot. My mother used to (and still does) tell me two things that would help me succeed through any situation: pray and be positive. I would like to focus on the latter. You can call it optimism or karma. Either way, it is a key attribute to leadership. “There is little difference... MORE

Just another day at the office
May 19, 2006 — In a recent phone conversation with my brother, we were discussing the events of our day; nothing too exciting or earth shattering. In other words, as my brother said, “It was just another day at the office.” After we hung up, I got to thinking about his comment. My brother is a police officer in southern California. On this particular day, his day... MORE

Obedience, ethical loyalty
May 11, 2006 — As leaders, we must never make our people choose between permitting unethical actions (Integrity Last) or hurting their career by confronting unethical actions (Integrity First). As followers, we must always confront unethical actions without fear (Integrity First) for the sake of all affected by the unethical act. If I can help make a difference... MORE

We all start somewhere, even Homer was once illiterate
May 1, 2006 — Before we can run, we must walk. Before we can walk, we must crawl. Cliché – yes. True – definitely. I know because I watched my daughters grow. First, they’re learning to roll from side-to-side. Then, they get strong enough to push themselves up and scoot across the floor. Finally, they summon the courage to stand and face humility if they... MORE

Don't forget the big TOE
May 1, 2006 — If you have seen the movie “Stripes,” the classic comedy about the Army, you may recall the scene in which Bill Murray volunteers to lead his platoon. “An Army without leaders is like a foot without a big toe,” he said to his fellow Soldiers. “And Sergeant Hulka (their platoon sergeant) isn’t always gonna be there to be that big toe for... MORE

The problem is -- somebody else won't do it
April 20, 2006 — Marine Corps Logistics Base Barstow is a dirty base. It’s not the fault of the Marines and civilian employees who live and work there, it has to do with the desert winds of the Mojave and the base’s proximity to the only highway connecting Las Vegas to Los Angeles. People cruising to the ocean or to Vegas for a little fun use Barstow as a pit stop... MORE

Loyalty: A matter of choice
April 20, 2006 — In my experience, loyalty isn’t earned – it’s learned. I used to think I became loyal to someone once they earned my trust and respect. Now, I believe loyalty comes from being teachable and submissive to those placed in authority over me. I also believe that saying, “I’m loyal,” is like saying, “I am a fast runner;” both comments can only be... MORE

Purpose-driven Airmen live with hope
April 17, 2006 — Living with hope and confidence is the only way to really live. Everything else is just “operative,” as we say. Here are three very important questions that I’m sure you’ve asked yourself many times throughout life: Who am I? This questions our identity Do I matter? This questions our importance What is my place in life? This deals with our impact... MORE

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